Suspects in Maligawatta stampede face up to 10 years rigorous imprisonment: DIG Ajith Rohana

COLOMBO (News 1st): Suspects in connection with the Maligawatta stampede incident could face up to 10 years rigorous imprisonment if proven guilty, police said on Sunday. DIG Ajith Rohana said that the recent stampede at Maligawatta caused due to the distribution of cash in violation of quarantine regulations and the police will take action against the suspects arrested over the incident. The stampede in Maligawatta that occurred on Thursday (May 21), cost the lives of three women, while nine other people sustained injuries. "Charges including culpable homicide, aiding and abetting, causing injury through an act of danger, committing conspiracy and attending an illegal meeting have been filed against the suspects in the incident, and legal action will be taken soon," DIG Ajith Rohana told News 1st on Sunday. Island-wide curfew is once again in effect in the country, since 8:00 pm on Saturday. Deputy Inspector General of Police and Attorney-at-Law, Ajith Rohana urged the public to comply with quarantine regulations while curfew is in force. "Within these two days, special focus will be on those who violate curfew regulations and those who gather in crowds. Therefore, people should strictly refrain from violating quarantine regulations," DIG Ajith Rohana said. Police curfew will be in force across the island till 4:00 am on Tuesday, 26th of May, according to the President's Media Division.